Car tire wear marks are intended increase our awareness. But unfortunately, they’re all too often ignored. Do you know where to look?
Until recently, I’ve always been a subscriber to the old penny tire test – you’ve probably heard of it –stick a penny with Lincoln’s head pointed down into the tire tread. If you can see the top of his head, your tires definitely need replacing.
But just recently, while trying to determine if I needed to take the plunge and pop new tires on my wheels, I discovered the car tire wear marks. Just look for a small rubber extension that usually goes across the gap in between sections of tread. Each tire has an indicator. If it’s getting close to level with the rest of the tread, it’s new tire time.
I know buying new tires is not cheap. In fact, the prices are often a real drag on the old budget, even if you’re able to score a good discount. But it is important to understand that you usually get what you pay for. I say this because I learned the lesson the hard way. Just last year, I decided to go with less expensive tires on my car. I figured what the heck – they’re worth a try, right?
Wow, was I ever mistaken. Just a year later and about 14,000 miles, my new rubber is completely shot. Now, part of the problem is also my fault. My car wasn’t in perfect alignment, so the tires did wear unevenly. Even so, I still didn’t exactly end up getting the great bargain I anticipated at the time.
The moral of the story? Well now that I’m ready for new tires again, I guarantee I’ll be reading the car tire reviews to find the best possible car tire for my wheels before I change them out. Granted, the tire warranty usually gets better with the more money spent, but I’m also confident I can score a deal after shopping around and getting few quotes. After comparing ratings and prices, I’m hoping I’ll never have to deal with cheap tires again!
If your car tire wear marks are telling you it’s time, read the car tire reviews to be assured you’re getting the best car tire.